The second great surge forward by the Trojans occurs in Book XV. Zeus, having awakened to the Achaian rally, asserts his leadership, and no god dares stand in his way. Zeus stands into direct contrast with Agamemnon, whose leadership is frequently questioned and sometimes challenged.
On page 389 starting at line 67, Zeus presents the outcome of the battle. This passage is of interest because it points to the fact that Homer’s audience was completely aware of the plot events of the poem. Homer does not have to depend on his plot to create interest. His audience is involved as they watch the inexorable tide of events surging toward their inevitable close. As with so many Greek works, the power lies in how the author handles his material as opposed to simply what happens.
Achilles’ friend, Patroklos, who has been introduced earlier in the epic, becomes a major player in this book. Patroklos tries to persuade Achilles to enter the battle. Having failed in that attempt, Patroklos gets permission to enter himself. The discussion between Achilles and Patroklos shows that Achilles is in conflict regarding his position. He obviously wishes to return to battle, but cannot because of his vow and his pride. Oddly, Achilles seems more and more like a modern, alienated anti-hero—the man apart from everyone else, unable to act until action is forced upon him.
Apollo rouses Hektor to return to the battle. Once again the gods act as inspiration for the mortals. Symbolically, the God of War acts as the elemental force that drives men into battle. Consequently, Hektor, who had pulled back from the fight, finds renewed energy and surges forward.
Glossary
| • | Styx, River of the Underworld |
| Achilles was dipped in it by Thetis, making him invulnerable except for his heel. Gods also swore oaths by the River Styx. |
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